The final touches are being put to multi-million plans for an artificial surfing lake in Scotland which would feature a device capable of producing up to 1,000 waves an hour.

The project aims to transform the disused Craigpark Quarry pit near Ratho

Backers of the Wavegarden Scotland project are understood to be close to finalising the planning application for the project to transform the disused Craigpark Quarry pit near Ratho into a major attraction for surfing enthusiasts.

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Two public consultations on the initial plans were held in February and since then the team has been working on final plans to put to the City of Edinburgh Council with submission now thought to be imminent.

The latest Wavegarden Cove device which would be installed in Scotland is able to generate two waves every eight seconds

The revolutionary new technology chosen for the project has been developed by Wavegarden in Spain – the company behind Surf Snowdonia who welcomed over 150,000 visitors last year.

This state-of-the-art technology can generate consistent world class waves for any level of surfer, from beginner to Olympic athlete, at the flick of a switch.

The latest Wavegarden Cove device which would be installed in Scotland is able to generate two waves every eight seconds.

Surfing is a sport growing in popularity, highlighted by the fact it will feature at the Tokyo 2020 Olympic Games for the first time. Advances in wetsuit technology also means that surfers can be guaranteed warmth all year round.

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The planned site lies directly across from the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena and the facilities could together put Ratho on the map as an international outdoor adventure destination, providing huge benefits to the local economy.

As well as the surfing and water sports facilities, the proposed plans also include self-catering lodges, a café, car park, retail outlets and a large country park for walkers, runners and cyclists.

The plans also include self-catering lodges, a café, car park, retail outlets and a large country park for walkers, runners and cyclists

The Wavegarden Scotland development expects to create more than 80 jobs, including specialised water sports jobs and a variety of roles in retail, catering and leisure.

Andy Hadden, co-founder of Tartan Leisure which is developing the project, said if it gets the go-ahead it “could position Scotland as a leading surfing destination” and complement the existing natural surfing locations around the coastline.

He added: “Wavegarden Scotland is a thrilling new concept in the adventure leisure industry.

"If approved, it could position Scotland as a leading surfing destination as the country already has some world-class natural breaks.

"Anything that encourages people, whether young or old, to lead an active lifestyle and enjoy all the benefits that come with it is likely to garner support across the city. Hopefully others will share my enthusiasm for development.”

William Watson, President of the Scottish Surfing Federation said: “We fully support this fantastic project and will continue to work with Tartan Leisure to ensure it fits with the best interests of Scottish surfing.”